Despite not fielding a team, China is providing critical infrastructure, transportation, and equipment to support Mexico's hosting of the 2026 World Cup.

Although China has no team on the pitch at the 2026 World Cup, the country’s industrial and technological presence is dominating the tournament’s logistics in Mexico. China has bolstered Mexico’s capacity as a host country with railways and buses, as well as the tournament’s official footballs. And that support comes at a time when the Latin American country is navigating its relations with Beijing amid mounting pressure from Washington. Among the bigger-ticket items on a long list of support...